Hoops Scoops...prospects Miami should target in the 2013 draft first 4 rounds...

I’ll preface this by saying that you won’t see any names of guys that I either:1.don’t like as prospects2.don’t feel will make it into the range of each pick we have3.aren’t a scheme fit i.e. cover 2 corners, 34 prospects only, skill position talent that doesn’t fit this option route system 4.guys that play not very smart on tape to me5.olineman that are too large or not athletic enough or both to play in a zone scheme6.guys that don’t meet my height requirements for certain positions or7.guys that I don’t think the value makes sense for Miami where they are projected to come off the boardIn other words this is a Miami draft board first 4 rounds prospects that I would target at each pick……there is no particular order here these players at each pick carry pretty much the same grade to me…so if we were on the clock I would choose from one of the prospects listed under each pick # obviously...of course in the event one of the names I have was still on the board when our pick came up next I would obviously be very inclined to pull the trigger on the player with the higher grade depending on what we had done prior…just as any smart general manager should…this is my own analysis off watching a ton of regular and postseason college football tape and keying prospects and the entire postseason draft process from senior bowl and shrine game to nfl combine and pro days…one more thing…you won’t find any qbs…Ryan Tannehill has fixed that position for the long term….with that the Miami Dolphins are on the clock…
Pick #12 and Round 1 targets…
Barkevious Mingo Defensive EndThis is my top rated fully healthy pure 3 point stance pass rush prospect in the class… long and lean mingo possesses explosive initial first step quickness off the ball and has ridiculous athleticism and nice length and despite his relatively lean frame provides a pop on contact and understands leverage… he rocks people on contact with his hands getting tackles off balance and then redirects back inside to the qb and shows off that 4.5 closing speed and quick acceleration...he runs down things from the backside he has no business getting to and covers ground like a gazelle...he has the ability to gain the edge and turn the corner with that explosive outside speed rush and then flatten out to the qb...as a situational pass rusher in the nickel initially he’s a plug and play hand in the dirt edge guy that tackles must account for and due to his high end tools will make tackles overcommit opening up things redirecting back to the inside…plus hips plus change of direction plus length and acceleration…probably more coveted by 34 teams as a every down player I see that as quite the projection considering how much he has played with a hand in the dirt in college and imo his best attributes are his ability to get up field and make havoc…let this guy hunt the qb…weakness is obvious he’s light in the pants and a liability against the run at this point…more a situational rusher in a 43…but the tools are undeniable…there’s not a tight end in football that can keep this kid at bay if anyone ever tries to block him with one…
Cornelius Carradine Defensive End
Fully healthy this is the best of true 43 end size pass rush prospect in the class…wow what an athlete and explosion guy…you can pretty much take everything I said about Mingo and post it here…explosive initial first step quickness out of his stance…relentless motor in pursuit…can flatten out to the qb and has for his size very good change of direction and hips…closes on the football shows very good ball awareness terrific acceleration…strength in his hands to shed and power to walk guys into the backfield…this is an every down de with upside still…a top 10 pick fully healthy…coming off an acl this is probably a bit rich to have him this high but you can forget any pick #42 stuff here folks…the kids too good on tape and too high end athlete and tools guy to ever get there…either take him at #12 or in a slight trade down or plan on missing out…
Lane Johnson Offensive Tackle
6 foot 5 306 lbs…one word…athlete…best feet in the tackle class…fits this zone scheme like a glove…plug and play left tackle with upside…terrific lateral quickness feet are so good he looks like he can mirror guys and keep em at bay just with his footwork…pretty much just toyed with everyone he matched up with at the senior bowl…add in the fact that he has the body to add another 10-15 lbs. and not lose anything athletically and you have yourself a very coveted prospect…sits down well in pass pro shows off terrific knee bend has terrific arm length gets to the second level and makes solid contact in a hurry…in full gallop he moves like a tight end…jaw dropper athletically… bottom line here is Miami either trades up for Lane Johnson or they miss out…he’s not getting to pick #12…I include him here in the event we do trade up…
Keenan Allen Wide Receiver
My top rated wide receiver in the class…6 ft. 2 205 lbs. this is the most polished big body wr in the class…inability to work out and run has hurt his stock and he probably will be on the board longer than he should be but there’s no doubt in my mind had he been able to work out and run he would be a top 15 pick lock and the first wr off the board…looks like a mid-4.5’s guy on tape a big body that can separate and has burst in and out of his cuts…plays very smart on tape I think he Id’s coverage well and fits this option route system well…not afraid of contact he’ll make plays down the seam in tight windows with his body control and his ability to locate and go up and get the football…plus hands…uses his body well to shield off defenders and box out and he’s a win option in the red zone…could be a bit more physical and provide more run after the catch but his qb did him no favors in 2012 and I think had he gotten better qb play he would have shown he could do more…
Jonathon Cooper Offensive Guard
Best interior move athlete in the class…this guy can really pull and get out in front and lead a running back around the corner…top rated guard and interior prospect period that fits this Miami scheme to a t he would be a plug and play left guard and next to Pouncey probably make up the most athletic center left guard combination in football…35 reps of 225 lbs. sits down well in pass pro can drop his hips and anchor in pass pro at times his base gets a little too wide and as a result he can have issues against power…I think more than anything that’s about coaching and something easily correctable just needs to have his legs under him…
Tyler Eifert Tight End
The top tight end in the class…6 ft. 5 4.68 40 which isn’t exactly a burner but turn on the tape and watch him be used flexed out wide and the mismatches he creates out there…I see him in Miami being used in a similar fashion to what the Packers have done with Jermichael Finley…creating mismatches by formation and personnel…has the ability to split out wide out of motion and have an instant mismatch with just about any lb. or safety…gets down the seam in a hurry…shows nice ball awareness uses his body well to create separation and get off coverage… plays in space well and an athletic mismatch…in line as a blocker this kids not terrible the effort is there thru the whistle he’s not going to embarrass you as a blocker having him on the field and I think he’ll only get better with time…day 1 contributor…no doubt in my mind you are not going to have to wait while this kid develops…he’s too polished…
Tavon Austin Wide Receiver/Kick Returner/Backfield package player5 ft. 8 ½ 174 lbs. 4.34 40.…most explosive offensive playmaker in the draft…polished route runner from the slot I think he fits this offense and would be a terrific mismatch and nightmare for dcs next to Mike Wallace…plays bigger and tougher than his size suggest outstanding quick acceleration and gets to top end speed in a hurry…makes cuts on a dime feet are fantastic…can line up in the backfield on occasion and also be motioned back there to give the opposition fits…very good awareness uses his blockers well and works off of them and plays very smart on the field…provides more vertical routes out of the slot and playmaking…this kids as explosive as they come…open up the playbook with this kid and plan to give him at least 10 touches per game including on specials…
D. J Hayden Cornerback
Man I was late to this party…this kids as physically talented as any corner in the class…there’s no doubt in my mind had he been healthy in 2012 and played the full season this guy would be giving dee milliner a run for his money as the top corner in the class and first one off the board…watched 3 games saw so much vontae davis level physical talents it wasn’t funny…almost 6 ft. almost 200 lbs. hits like a truck for a corner…physical force he imposes himself on you…terrific quick acceleration and when he puts his foot in the ground and comes forward he explodes out of it…looks like he’s very comfortable in off coverage and zone has the strength the recovery speed and the acceleration to play a stout press…pretty much like having another safety on the field as a tackler and the way he arrives to the ball…I see good ball skills and awareness he finds the football when it’s in the air…rallies to the ball…only question here is medical if he’s fully cleared he’s not getting to pick #42 so you either take him here or in a trade down or miss out…chiseled out of granite…
Desmond Trufant Cornerback
Almost 6 ft. almost 200 lbs. runs better than 4.4 flat…has checked off every box during the draft process…has a swagger that you love about him…very comfortable in off coverage and press not the most physical corner but he’ll stick his nose in there…I have him rated just below Hayden cause I’m a real sucker for a physical corner with great size who has explosive tools but make no mistake about it Trufant put out some terrific tape in 2012…every time I watched him I saw something different…my notes went from solid press man corner to comfortable In off man and shows solid awareness in zone…probably most comfortable in man both press and off coverages…has a tendency to squat on routes and I think at times he guesses but he’s got first round tools and size and he strikes me as the kind of kid that forgets easy which is pretty important…doesn’t carry one snap to the next in his head…
Pick #42
Zach Ertz Tight End
More an intermediate and underneath worker in my opinion at the next level…but make no mistake about it this guy can also make hay down the seam…I think he shows as a very smart football player on the field fully prepared to run routes dictated by coverage knows when to sit down and when to carry his route…just comes off as very smart…plus hands plus quickness he has also shown he can be flexed out and used as a mismatch at times at Stanford… large catch radius he’ll go up and get the ball in traffic…uses his body well when the balls in the air and he’ll go up and pluck it…in line you don’t want to depend on him very much he’s more your finesse tight end and pass catcher but he’s willing…at times though I don’t think he plays to his size kind of plays a more h back game on tape…but I really like him…this is about pick range where I think his name is called…24 reps of 225 lbs….
Robert Woods Wide Receiver
Key word here is polish…Robert Woods can run any route in the tree and at the high level…separates in his routes…another guy that plays very smart on the field…has some red zone win abilities with his quickness off the snap and the way he gets off the los and can drop his hips and burst out of his cuts…finds the football really well…6 ft. almost 200 lbs. timed speed at 4.51 not a burner but savvy football player who reads coverage well and runs routes accordingly…I love this kid…plays tougher than his size suggests he’s not afraid to drop the shoulder and try to run someone over…provides run after the catch and make you miss…thinks he’s the best player on the field…confident player that I think is going to be a better pro than many expect…I’d take him over Brian Hartline for that role in our offense right now…if not a #1 wr down the road I think he’s the best #2 in football in the not too distant future…terrific hands…as a freshman this kid played and looked like a top 10 pick…
Alex Okafor Defensive End
Doesn't wow you with anything tools wise but just something about him I think will make him a solid pass rush producer in the pros...can't even put my finger on it...not a great get off not great acceleration or burst after the initial step but just very effective...that said in the run game I think he's a guy that gets moved out of the hole at the poa too much...not stout enough...maybe some of that is he's in such a hurry to get up field he forgets about contain responsibilities vs. the run but I see him giving huge lanes in the b gap for backs to just run right into too much...I’d say at least initially I’d use him sparingly in a rotation on early downs and get him on the field on 3rd down as a pass rush specialist...it's weird I’m usually all about pass rush physical tools when it comes to who I like and this kid doesn't have elite anything but he just gets the job done…this is the best looking edge pass rush prospect to come from UT in a while…doesn’t have a great burst nor does he have much closing speed…3[SUP]rd[/SUP] rated pure pass rusher at 43 end on my board…
Arthur Brown Outside Linebacker
K States Arthur Brown is an undersized instinctual backer that I really like...only a 43 fit due to his size might be 6 ft. might be 230 lbs. brown has the instincts first and foremost you look for...reads his keys very well looks like a student of the game to me his diagnosis and tracking of the ball abilities are high end...shoots gaps in run support a very dependable tackler and packs a punch can run and find work can sift through traffic and make plays on the ball good speed can cover down the seam and underneath and limits run after the catch I don't quite have him as explosive a prospect as I did Nebraska’s Lavonte David last year despite the similar size but I see Arthur Brown as a terrific weak side olb selection…although it seems unlikely given the coin we gave Philip Wheeler…I think he also has some mike abilities but we also have Danell Ellerbe…all I know is he’s a hell of a football player…
Giovanni Bernard Running Back
Just under 5 ft. 9 and 202 lbs. which will keep him out of round 1 consideration with teams this kids got low 4.5’s speed a north and south mentality terrific lateral cutting abilities and explosion and burst thru the hole…add in make you miss at the 2[SUP]nd[/SUP] level plus vision plus balance and a weapon on every down… showed off nice hands as a receiver out of the backfield and despite his size I think he’s a 12-15 carry back that can be run between the tackles and used in the passing game lined up or motioned into the slot…his size may mean you can get him a little later like late round 2…
Quinton Patton Wide ReceiverQuick twitch but not ultra fast or overly explosive...polished…plus route runner…smooth…sets up dbs. well…gets off the los with his initial lateral quickness and footwork…reminds me of Reggie Wayne in a lot of ways...uses his hands well and locates the football...i think he'd fit our o like a glove...6 ft. 200 lbs. low 4.5’s…I see some red zone win abilities here…but he’s not a blow by you guy on the vertical…looks like a good fit for our offense…fluid hips plays smart understands db leverage and coverage…some run after the catch also…
Steadman Bailey Wide Receiver
Most the time when a guys undersized as 5 ft. 10 and some change would suggest and not all that fast as 4.59 would imply I would write off a wr on the boundary with a high pick…well not Steadman Bailey…terrific feet maybe the best feet of the wr class…he gets off the los and off coverage with his short area footwork and has deceptive vertical speed runs by guys before they know it…a win in the red zone on quick stuff option again because of those terrific feet…huge hands 9 7/8 inches…natural hands catcher …gets in and out of his cuts well…solid route runner tracks the ball well down the field…plus hips no wasted movement when he gears down…add in he has some make you miss in tight spaces and some run after the catch abilities and I think while you may not have to take him this high why risk it…
Margus Hunt Defensive End
I hear a lot of 5 technique fits here and frankly I don’t agree with them…Hunt is not stout enough at the poa vs the run and does not play with enough leverage where I would project him as a take on blockers 34 de…what I see is a 43 defensive end who shifts inside and rushes some in the nickel…6 ft. 8 277 lbs. vine like arms 38 reps of 225 lbs.…for his size has explosive initial get off and burst out of his stance as an edge rusher able to gain the corner with his speed and quickness and length however he doesn’t flatten out to the qb very well on the edge once he gains the corner and plays very straight linish on tape…not a great change of direction and hips guy although at the combine he showed very well in stand up drills in that regard…not great flexibility or ball awareness he can lose the ball at times but I’m looking at this kid as a situational edge rusher initially who comes on the field in the nickel and gets upfield vs tackles and uses his length to bat down balls at the los which he is very adept at…I think his best football is in front of him…there’s definitely some boom or bust potential here that cannot be ignored and frankly I’d rather have him off the board before he got to me here and I had to choose…but talent and upside wise he validates this pick…only 4 years of football…better edge pass rush tools than Quentin Coples had when he came out of similar size…freak athlete…
Justin Pugh Offensive tackle/Guard
I have Pugh this high for a couple of reasons…one he’s a plus athlete at 6 ft. 5 and 307 lbs. that possesses terrific feet…his feet allow him to play a high end tackle at the college level despite his short arms 31 ½ inches…a very good move athlete he’s higher than some of the other combo position tackle/guard prospects on my board cause he’s stouter able to anchor more and not get moved off the spot as much…his short arms are definitely a concern at tackle although til he proved he couldn’t handle it with his feet and his knee bend and the way he sits down in pass pro I would worst case give him some swing tackle looks…ideally though I think his position is as a left guard in a zone scheme…where his footwork would stand out even more and his short arms in a phone booth would not be so much of an issue…this guy can move…position versatility here is a plus…
Pick #56
Terron Armstead Offensive Tackle
This pick is all about upside...outside of Lane Johnson who I have as a top 10 worthy talent and prospect and the #1 offensive tackle in the class no tackle in the class possesses the upside of Armstead…the tape however says 3[SUP]rd[/SUP] round value…prototype tackle arm length solid not special at the shrine bowl week and game against lower rated prospects he needs a lot of work and is rough around the edges…needs polish…I don’t think I’d be comfortable thinking he’s a plug and play left tackle at this stage I think he’s someone you are better off sitting on for a year if you can…the upside is undeniable here and I think when it’s all said and done the talent validates a late round 2 selection…this could be Jason Peters down the road…natural knee bender able to drop his hips…
Christine Michael Running Back
5 ft. 10 220 lbs. 4.54 40 27 reps bottom line is this kids as talented a running back as there is in this class…took the east west shrine week and game by storm best looking prospect in attendance period…jump cuts…plus feet…north and south mentality…make you miss in the hole…explosive…burst into the 2[SUP]nd[/SUP] level…nose for the goal line…off the field character and medical here as he tore an acl about 18 months ago…top 50 talent…
Jonathon Cyprien Safety
Yep…here’s where he lands…about a week ago when I started this I had him after reviewing the senior bowl work for a 2[SUP]nd[/SUP] time up as a 3[SUP]rd[/SUP] round value…pulled a hammy at the combine and couldn’t run…didn’t participate in any on field work…plays more a strong safety game to me but I think in Coyles system with pretty much interchangeable safeties it’s not a big deal…plus hips pretty good change of direction he flies to the football and brings a strong safety punch with him…a bit of a high tackler at times doesn’t always wrap up and he’ll dive from bad angles in pursuit…I like his instincts vs the pass and the way he covers ground in that regard and he strikes me as a guy that the ball finds…he’s got some burst to him and you can see on tape him carry man coverage vertical down the field and in a guys hip…4.65 40 guy at his pro day…watched 3 more things of his the other night the more I stacked my board the more I kept saying he needs to be in round 2…couldn’t do pick #42 though cause the level of comp isn’t all that great on a lot of the tape…looks like a Coyle covet guy to me…
Eric Reid Safety
Poor mans Mark Barron…physical flies to the football player of similar size…plays more a strong safety game to me as well but again I think in this system the safeties are interchangeable…has stiff hips will get exposed in some coverages but all that 2 deep man under we play will hide some of that…pretty sure tackler instincts vs the passing game are ok will come up and strike you in the run game and fill…hips and coverage separates Barron from him…
Markus Wheaton Wide ReceiverGame is very similar to that of Mike Wallace who we just paid a brinks truck worth of loot so I’m not sure how much he’s in play but at this stage he’s a better route runner more polished than Wallace was maybe not quite as blow by you speed and the same level scares the daylights out of dc’s over the top threat but of similar makeup…4.45 40 slight frame but not terrible in that regard separates on tape in his routes pretty finesse wr gets off the los pretty well for a slight not very physical wr can lose physically at the stem of his route but gears down well drops his hips and fires out of a cut…can be rerouted off his preferred line… hands look solid…separation in his routes really stands out on college tape…burst athlete with home run hitting speed…quick acceleration and solid feet…
Robert Alford Cornerback
I really like this small school prospect…came to the senior bowl and competed from the jump over 5 ft. 10 over 190 lbs. long arms ran under 4.4 flat has closing speed shows long speed quick acceleration...long and lanky fluid hips fires out of his pedal and drives forward...reminds me of a more explosive and polished Keenan Lewis when he came out....I think his upside may be the highest in the corner class…finds the football in coverage instinctual…
Jamar Taylor Cornerback
Over 5 ft. 11 190 lbs. ran 4.4 on tape looks most comfortable to me in off coverages something I expect us to play a lot of this season but showed at the senior bowl that he could also stay in a mans hip down the field in press…started stacking my board and said worst case late round 2 value…22 reps of 225 lbs. lends itself to him being able to jam and reroute wrs at the line of scrimmage…short arms 30 5/8 inches…
Jon Bostic Linebacker
Explosive quick twitch burst athlete instinctual has the speed to flow to the ball sideline to sideline looks like a nice underrated 43 mike backer to me…4.61 40 very fluid…but is he in play given our lb moves in free agency???
Ryan Swope Wide Receiver
Possesses high end short area quickness and fluidity of hips and he can separate in and out of his cuts...when he crosses a dbs face in the slot with a 2 way go he gets the separation you covet...he also runs terrific routes and sells his routes well with pressing the db in his stem down the field and uses his head even to sell things to dbs before gearing down opening his hips and making quick cuts...add in that he understands coverage and db leverage and runs routes off of them well and plays very smart…6 ft over 200 lbs. 4.34 official 40 time…a history of concussions that must be taken into consideration…tough hard nosed slot wr that will catch in traffic and offers some more vertical route options in the slot than we currently have…if I had to pick one guy in this targets thread that I expect to be a Dolphin it would be Ryan Swope…has the size that you usually can’t find in a slot wr with the speed and polish he possesses…seems like an obvious choice to me…qb friendly…Ryan Tannehill trust Ryan Swope…no projection here…
Pick #77 and 82
Jordan Poyer Cornerback
Really good feet plus hips puts his foot in the ground and comes forward to the ball very well…not much upside…solid seems like a good fit for our scheme…not great long speed
Darius Slay Cornerback
Looks like a mid round value on tape…does not play to his timed speed…lit the combine on fire in all facets footwork long speed acceleration you name it…probably goes higher but this is where I think his value is…
Vance Mcdonald Tight End
Poor mans Rob Gronkowski…questions about his hands…physical player…can get down the seam…31 reps of 225 lbs. 4.7 speed…267 lbs.…
Dave Quessenberry Offensive tackle/Guard
Good zone scheme fit athlete with good feet and sits down well in pass pro…needs to get stronger I like his left guard potential and his position versatility…light in the pants at 299 lbs and I’m not sure he can add any good weight…
Brian Schwenke Center
Zone scheme center prospect with some guard possibilities…sits down well in pass pro and anchors well…good move athlete but not on the mike Pouncey level in that regard…31 reps of 225 lbs.
Tyrann Mathieu Cornerback
Nickel corner that probably can play some boundary in a pinch…plays a little bigger than he is and more physical but this cats a playmaker and a ball hawk the ball finds him…ball skills are elite…effective edge blitz db from the slot also…supreme confidence in his abilities…maybe best ball skills in the class…not a great cover corner…undersized…
Kyle Long Left Guard
Finesse offensive guard with no tackle possibilities….one position player that needs to get much much stronger…terrific move athlete serious upside…in 2 years could be all pro or could be just a guy…zone scheme fit… probably gone in round 2 to a team betting on the upside…
Baccari Rambo Safety
Questions about range and coverage…at times on tape he looked like the best player on the Georgia defense…
David Amerson Cornerback
6 ft. 1 205 lbs. 4.4 speed terrific elite level physical tools for the position …lot of risk reward here…some ugly tape for a guy with his skillset…early round 3 is where I can sign off on taking a chance…technique fails him depends on his tools too much sometimes…problem may be in his head…
Brandon Williams Defensive Tackle
Dominated division 2 carries 340 lbs very well on his frame…not sure I see much pass rush upside…solid senior bowl showed he belonged …moves well for his size…38 reps of 225 lbs…
Bennie Logan Defensive Tackle
Underrated interior dline prospect that pops on Lsu tape at times…best football may be in front of him…
Leveon Bell Running Back
Not a burner but a big back that runs under his pads and punishes people downhill…great feet for his size…outstanding hands and receiving skills for his size…catches the ball like a 200 lb scat back in a 230 lb. package…change of pace back and short yardage goal line and milking late leads…pile mover…
Aaron Dobson Wide Receiver
One of the few big body wrs that gets off the los against press well…has some over the top abilities and runs pretty good routes…ok hips for his size…burst in and out of his cuts is lacking…needs to use his hands more to create separation out of his cuts and lean on dbs…kind of finesse in his routes…
David Bakhtiari Offensive Tackle
Looks like a tackle only to me…underrated athlete and prospect…plays thru the whistle…zone scheme fit…long legged good arm length…
Alvin Bailey Offensive Guard
Underrated guard prospect…might be a more natural right guard in our offense…27 reps of 225 lbs…
Cornelius Washington Defensive End
4.55 265 lbs. 36 reps of 225 lbs.…ghost at times on Georgia tape…I like him as a straight ahead pass rusher and not a guy that has to think so much as a lb...he needs to hunt the qb...situational edge pass rusher value…good edge rush tools and talents…
Devin Taylor Defensive End
Long lean lanky de that can run and has edge rush win qualities…not stout at the poa i think he has the ability to add good weight and make an impact as a pass rusher down the line... rated just below Washington as a edge pass rush prospect for me…may be someone you have to wait to see a return on…36 inch arms…
Travis Kelce Tight End
Ready to contribute in line right now…solid in pass pro…deceptive down the seam…plus hands…
Jonathon Franklin Running Back
More than a 3[SUP]rd[/SUP] down back in the pros…solid in pass pro…more quick than fast…pretty good balance and vision…not overly explosive…doesn’t break many tackles… good feet
Zac Stacy Running Back
5 ft 8 3/8 216 lb 4.5 40 stick of dynamite…2 year starter 27 reps of 225 lbs one cut and north and south…pile mover
Marcus Lattimore Running Back
The bottom line here is fully healthy this kids a top 20 pick…as it is I think he gets scooped up in the 3[SUP]rd[/SUP] by a team that can sit on him for a year and get return out of the investment in 2014…probably a contender…
Terrence Williams Wide Receiver
Big body plays a pretty finesse game…needs to use his hands more…can struggle to get off press…runs solid routes…plays the sideline well…has over the top vertical win abilities…
Marques Wilson Wide Receiver
Top 50 pick talent…smooth…can separate in his cuts and down the field finesse big body wr…only reason he gets here is cause of character and off the field issues…poor mans A. J. Green…
Knile Davis Running Back
Some buyer beware here….body beautiful 5 ft 11 3/8 227 lbs 4.37 40 31 reps of 225…medical and fumble issues a concern but the talent is undeniable…
Mike Gillislee Running Back
5 ft. 11 1/8 208 lbs. 4.5 speed…plays a little bigger than his size indicates…maybe undervalued…doesn’t wow you with anything
A.J. Klein Linebacker
Instinctual mike backer that really flashed between the tackles shrine week and game…better speed than anticipated….football player…solid…over 300 tackles the last 3 years very productive…
Kiko Alonzo Linebacker
Ideal size 6 ft. 4 240 lbs. very fluid when asked to drop and shows solid instincts…off the field concerns here…pops on Oregon tape
Philip Thomas Safety
Good ball skills has a feel for defending the passing game…looks pretty instinctual…looks comfortable in coverage and even in the slot at times…but shows no burst no quick acceleration no long speed…so his instincts are gonna have to offset a lot of that at the next level…just no real burst here with anything…plays more a corner game at safety
D. J. Swearenger Safety Big time hitter will knock you into next week…looks for kill shots…head hunter…playmaker…finds the football…ball skills look solid…but how many personal foul penalties is this guy gonna hurt you with???
Pick # 111
Brian Winters Offensive GuardNasty mauler reminds me of Richie Incognito in a lot of ways…may be more a power scheme fit…needs to move his feet more in pass pro…not bad feet like Incog just not active enough… decent move athlete to the 2[SUP]nd[/SUP] level…likely right guard best fit…
Jake Stoneburner Tight End6 ft 3 3/8 252 lbs 18 reps of 225 lbs. athletic enough that he played some wr in college solid hands good body control and runs solid routes…red zone option… some quick twitch…undervalued tight end prospect…
Dion Sims Tight End Plays slower than he times…I like him as an in line guy primarily who works the underneath as a pass catcher…not a seam threat or a guy I’d view as a mismatch flexed out…plays slow
Gavin Escobar Tight EndPlays faster than he times…better prospect than Michael Egnew when he came out…good size 6 ft. 5 7/8 254 lbs. large catch radius needs polish not sure he’s a day 1 contributor…in line he’s willing but you don’t want to ask him to do too much as a blocker or he’ll get exposed…
Barret Jones Offensive LineJack of all trades master of none…can be exposed by strength…has center guard and even right tackle versatility in a pinch…looks like may be a maxed out player though…worst case solid depth
Kenjon Barner Running Back 4.52 40 small back likely a 3[SUP]rd[/SUP] down back in the pros…can make you miss as a receiver out of the backfield and for his size is feisty in pass pro…explosive…weapon with the ball in his hands…
Brennan Williams Offensive Tackle Likely 2[SUP]nd[/SUP] round pick OT had he been healthy all season…scheme fit solid talent and a value pick in the 4[SUP]th[/SUP] round…
Duke Williams SafetySerious wheels comfortable in coverage…physical…feisty…flies to the football…kinda looks like a tweener…came to the combine at 203 looks like 190 lb guy on tape.…not a very effective blitzer…gets washed out…instincts and feel for what’s going on around him in zone look lacking…
Josh Boyce Wide Receiver Does not play to his timed speed…provides some run after the catch and some physical play…polish to his game …plays smart…solid routes…some burst…mid round value
Montori Hughes Defensive Tackle Developmental dt with upside and movement skills for his size…not much pass rush upside…needs to do a better job locating the ball…loses the ball too much
Hugh Thornton Offensive Guard Solid move athlete to the 2[SUP]nd[/SUP] level…has a tendency to overcommit in pass pro and reach and not move his feet…competes
Chase Thomas Outside LinebackerEffective blitz edge pass rusher has some wiggle with his rush in tight spaces…not overly athletic not all that fast or explosive…but damn good football player…I see him as a solb in a 43 stout at the poa and has real strength in his hands…pretty good instincts…
Tavarres King Wide ReceiverSerious tools terrific size…runs very good routes…feet look very good…gears down well little wasted movement…may be a guy though that looks best in underwear…can disappear at times in 11 on 11 action and given his tools and size he should be more dominant…some buyer beware here…but some serious upside as well
Terry Hawthorne CornerbackFluid in his pedal…plus feet…some stiffness in his hips…thick muscular corner…drives forward when he puts his foot in the ground…plus length plus acceleration and 4.4 speed…underrated prospect
Leon Mcfadden Cornerback Looks comfortable in off coverages which he played a lot of in college…I only have him this low due to height…seems like a good fit for what we want to do…more zone and off looks…recognizes routes…5 ft 9 5/8 short for the boundary…not overly explosive…shows good awareness…
B. W. Webb CornerbackSmall school prospect with nice tools…comes out of his pedal well…long speed…pretty finesse…got some burst to him…undersized corner at 184 lbs. may be ticketed for the slot and I just don’t know if he’s physical enough or a sure enough tackler for it…

Well there you have it folks…72 prospects that I think fit what we want to do and should target in the first 111 picks on draft weekend…just like Miami I don’t have a board with every prospect on it…Have at it… questions… comments… why isn’t this guy on the list??? go to hell Hoops…etc…

Outstanding, thanks Hoops. This is one draft where I don't have a clue what Miami is actually going to do. It is exciting but I am ready to get this show on the road and know what the Fins are going to be playing with next year.

Nice write up Hoops, and I see almost all of my prospects in there. But, you really lost me when you included Margus Hunt and Terron Armstead. Hunt is a workout warrior but he's not a good football player. If he ever becomes good, it should coincide with his first free agent contract, so if you want him, wait until then. Armstead may have potential, but that's an awful lot of projection. And, as with most of these lists, the picks are good in part because there's a high likelihood that the good picks will be gone by the time we draft there ... c'est la vie.

In zone coverage, we get 2 ballhawks. Our OL gets 2 quality starters. Tannehill gets a premier do-it-all TE and a reliable and explosive slot WR. The only thing missing would be an elite LT ... but you can't get everything in one draft. Next year, the draft focus shifts to LT/DE.

Nice write up Hoops, and I see almost all of my prospects in there. But, you really lost me when you included Margus Hunt and Terron Armstead. Hunt is a workout warrior but he's not a good football player. If he ever becomes good, it should coincide with his first free agent contract, so if you want him, wait until then. Armstead may have potential, but that's an awful lot of projection. And, as with most of these lists, the picks are good in part because there's a high likelihood that the good picks will be gone by the time we draft there ... c'est la vie.

In zone coverage, we get 2 ballhawks. Our OL gets 2 quality starters. Tannehill gets a premier do-it-all TE and a reliable and explosive slot WR. The only thing missing would be an elite LT ... but you can't get everything in one draft. Next year, the draft focus shifts to LT/DE.

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damn i did put pick #56...my bad pick #54...i can understand people disagreeing with the hunt thing... i mulled it over for a while myself...he's got edge pass rush tools though and for his size they are very good ones...but yeah he needs a lot of work...no doubt about it...thus i said i'd rather he be gone than have to consider him...projections right now are he will be gone...

with armstead it's about betting on the upside...and yeah it's a large projection...but with a late 2nd rounder it's not too much of a risk...the reward potential outweighs the risk...ideally you get that in round 3...as for your scenario i don't think you can just put off ot til 2014...we have to do something whether it be sign a showing signs of fall off eric winston or with a pick in the draft...
imo

I'm not so sure Ireland would take a situational rusher that high (Mingo). If Odrick is kicked inside and used in a rotation with Starks/Soliai (which he should be, IMO) I think we have the run pretty well covered with Vernon. The Dolphins could certainly use an explosive pass rusher, so Mingo definitely fits that bill. Carradine might make more sense for Ireland since hes a natural 43 end, as you say. That guy is a machine. 80 tackles and 11 sacks I think it was in 2012 before he went down with that ACL. Hard to believe this guy wasn't even a full time starter not long ago. Would love either of those guys at #12. No love for Bjoern Werner? A little surprised to see him left off your list….

I could get down with Tyler Eifert in the first round. Ideally, I'd hope the fins could strike a trade down into the late teens/early twenties if a falling Jarvis Jones is sitting on the board. If I couldn't find that trading partner, then I'd still be fine with taking Eifert at #12. The drop off to the next guy (Ertz) is a pretty big one. IMO. He's a seam threat with reliable hands, clutch player. Miami needs to find a blocking tight end, and Eifert has shown the willingness to improve this area of his game over the past year. With good NFL coaching, he'll be fine I think.

Lane Johnson I won't have a problem with that if he falls to #12, but I think trading up to #6 for him is dumb. Jon Cooper at #12 I could live with because of his great athleticism and fits well in the ZBS. Tavon Austin I've warmed up to a lot recently. I still think Swope in round two could provide the best value, but Austin is a dynamic playmaker who represents a huge upgrade over Davone Bess. Was a little surprised to see D. J. Hayden in the first round bracket, I'd have thought more of a day two selection.

Day two, I love Stedman Bailey. Great routes, solid hands, plays with unique physicality. I think he could end up being the most productive receiver in class. He had 25 touchdowns in 2012. I'd snap him up at #42 and wouldn't think twice about it. Swope > Bess. I don't know how else to put it. Swope is a playmaker… he gets separation on the short/intermediate routes, but also has a tendency to get deep. Plus theres the obvious connection with Tannehill/Sherman. Concussions are a concern though. I love Jordan Poyer. Great zone scheme fit which it appears the Dolphins are moving towards using more of. A lot of offensive line on your list I agree with (Armstead/Long/Bailey). Phillip Thomas I'm a huge fan of.

I'm not so sure Ireland would take a situational rusher that high (Mingo). If Odrick is kicked inside and used in a rotation with Starks/Soliai (which he should be, IMO) I think we have the run pretty well covered with Vernon. The Dolphins could certainly use an explosive pass rusher, so Mingo definitely fits that bill. Carradine might make more sense for Ireland since hes a natural 43 end, as you say. That guy is a machine. 80 tackles and 11 sacks I think it was in 2012 before he went down with that ACL. Hard to believe this guy wasn't even a full time starter not long ago. Would love either of those guys at #12. No love for Bjoern Werner? A little surprised to see him left off your list….

I could get down with Tyler Eifert in the first round. Ideally, I'd hope the fins could strike a trade down into the late teens/early twenties if a falling Jarvis Jones is sitting on the board. If I couldn't find that trading partner, then I'd still be fine with taking Eifert at #12. The drop off to the next guy (Ertz) is a pretty big one. IMO. He's a seam threat with reliable hands, clutch player. Miami needs to find a blocking tight end, and Eifert has shown the willingness to improve this area of his game over the past year. With good NFL coaching, he'll be fine I think.

Lane Johnson I won't have a problem with that if he falls to #12, but I think trading up to #6 for him is dumb. Jon Cooper at #12 I could live with because of his great athleticism and fits well in the ZBS. Tavon Austin I've warmed up to a lot recently. I still think Swope in round two could provide the best value, but Austin is a dynamic playmaker who represents a huge upgrade over Davone Bess. Was a little surprised to see D. J. Hayden in the first round bracket, I'd have thought more of a day two selection.

Day two, I love Stedman Bailey. Great routes, solid hands, plays with unique physicality. I think he could end up being the most productive receiver in class. He had 25 touchdowns in 2012. I'd snap him up at #42 and wouldn't think twice about it. Swope > Bess. I don't know how else to put it. Swope is a playmaker… he gets separation on the short/intermediate routes, but also has a tendency to get deep. Plus theres the obvious connection with Tannehill/Sherman. Concussions are a concern though. I love Jordan Poyer. Great zone scheme fit which it appears the Dolphins are moving towards using more of. A lot of offensive line on your list I agree with (Armstead/Long/Bailey). Phillip Thomas I'm a huge fan of.

Just a few brief comments, I like a lot of your list. Great job…..

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mingo will probably end up going to a 34 team that feels like he can play every down from the jump...i just think him making that transition from day 1 given what he was asked to do in college might not be the easiest one...yeah i think ireland is unlikely to take a situational rusher in the top half of round 1...but seattle did it last year and mingos got better length and imo is not the same level liability vs the run bruce irvin is...it is gonna take a gm to think outside the box to take mingo that high in a 43...

jarvis jones if he's a scheme it for miami it's as a solb...not a 43 de...and where i'd be willing to take him which is much lower than you evidently he'll be gone...he does not possess great edge rush tools or explosion...i'm not really interested...as a lb he'll wear a target in coverage...

werner is not on my list cause i don't believe in his edge pass rush tools and win against tackles at the nfl level enough...pretty simple...plus his lower body explosion is lacking...we got plenty of run defending 43 ends with not great pass rush tools...and i think werner is just that...

dj hayden what can i say...i'm a sucker for a corner with elite tools that will strike you...and i think he projects well...that's more of a trade down thing though...and medical must be a full go

damn i did put pick #56...my bad pick #54...i can understand people disagreeing with the hunt thing... i mulled it over for a while myself...he's got edge pass rush tools though and for his size they are very good ones...but yeah he needs a lot of work...no doubt about it...thus i said i'd rather he be gone than have to consider him...projections right now are he will be gone...

with armstead it's about betting on the upside...and yeah it's a large projection...but with a late 2nd rounder it's not too much of a risk...the reward potential outweighs the risk...ideally you get that in round 3...as for your scenario i don't think you can just put off ot til 2014...we have to do something whether it be sign a showing signs of fall off eric winston or with a pick in the draft...
imo

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Good point about the risk/reward at that stage of the draft. He isn't raw and he does have the physical skills, so I guess taking a chance on an important position like LT might not be a bad idea at that stage of the draft. No doubt Hunt has impressive measurable ... the guy is built for youtube and kinda reminds me of that can't-miss DT prospect (Peria Jerry?) who jumped out of the pool. Unfortunately, Hunt isn't even close to him as a football player ... and that's damning with feint praise, heh.

I wasn't suggesting the Dolphins take Jarvis Jones. I have no interest in him. I was saying, if he falls to #12 then it may be easier for them to find a trading partner (as in a team like the Steelers who may want to come up and get him) and drop back a couple of spots to pick up Eifert.

I wasn't suggesting the Dolphins take Jarvis Jones. I have no interest in him. I was saying, if he falls to #12 then it may be easier for them to find a trading partner (as in a team like the Steelers who may want to come up and get him) and drop back a couple of spots to pick up Eifert.

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what makes you think anyones coming up for jarvis jones to #12??? i think he's on the board longer than you do...has medical with the neck...ran slow...has tested very poorly...

what makes you think anyones coming up for jarvis jones to #12??? i think he's on the board longer than you do...has medical with the neck...ran slow...has tested very poorly...

i guess anythings possible but i think it's pretty unlikely...

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Yeah, they are all valid reasons to think otherwise. Lets not forget though, this kid was considered a real possibility for the #2 pick not so long ago. Either way, I used him as an example of somebody who I think might generate some interest for a team to move up. Star is another who I think could fall. The draft will be very interesting for sure :up:

Yeah, they are all valid reasons to think otherwise. Lets not forget though, this kid was considered a real possibility for the #2 pick not so long ago. Either way, I used him as an example of somebody who I think might generate some interest for a team to move up. Star is another who I think could fall. The draft will be very interesting for sure :up:

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well yeah we are opposites...cause i think now that stars heart is cleared he's going up boards...i'll be floored if he gets out of the top 10...

I'm with you on physical corners who can do it all. I just heard about DJ Hayden the other day but I like what I hear a lot. Does anyone have any insight into his injury? I know he's recovered, but how risky is it for him to reinjure that? I mean thats an extremely serious condition to have been through once when most people don't survive

After reading that, there are so many options that Miami could take. In an ideal world, i would love to have both Mingo & Austin, but i think the trade up cost would be far too much. I dont like the idea generally of trading next years picks away, but I think those two players could turn Miami's fortunes on its ear, and it would probably be worth it. If we gave up our 2nd & 1st of our 3rds, I dont know if that would be enough to trade back into the low 20's to pick again.

As you know im really with you on Swope, he has everthing he needs to be a high end slot reciever, plus he has the trust of Tannehill.... the concussions are worrying but for me hes a good second round player.... I will be upset if he is not a Dolphin this time next month.

Im also with u on Mathieu, really nice nickle CB, I think he could learn a lot from Grimes. What do you think about about his personality, is he a bad kid or was it just a drug issue he may well be over now?

I think you have Slay a round too slow, id be happy with him in round two.

Great shout on Woods, I see him as a slightly lesser Greg Jennings in a few years.

I quite like the idea of brining in Barrett Jones as a long term replacement for incognito, smart player and a leader. Would you be ok with him as a starting guard?

I would be interested to know, in terms of the passing game how big is the difference between Eifert and Ertz?

elam doesn't meet my height requirements...i'm pretty bullish about safeties and corners at least 5 ft 10...safeties have to be able to cover these massive tight ends...plus i think elam while a heavy striker and enforcer is not all that great a cover safety...finally i don't think he makes it to pick #42 and that's where if i was gonna disregard the height i would probably see his value...

My only disagreement is I do not see Mingo as a fit. At 230 plus pounds, he is not going to make the adjustment as quick as you say he will.

Thanks for the time and effort.

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not really sure what you are talking about...mingo is 241 lbs played a hand in the dirt de at lsu all through his college career...if there's an adjustment it's making the switch to 34 olb...that's where the projection lies...he's never done that...

to me if you're gonna draft someone with a top 20 pick you should be playing to his strengths and what you graded him so high in the first place with...not asking him to be something else...i think that's where you can get yourself in trouble...so much projection with a position switch...

guys that are no brainer stand up olbs in a 34 are dion jordan...who has played so much standing up and dropping etc there is no projection there...it's plug and play...

Great write up Hoops. Not high on Mingo at 12, I am all about adding Austin. If Austin is not the pick, Johnson, Eifert or Hayden would be a good consolation prize. Armstead is a guy that I hope that draft. Everything I am reading on him makes sound like him a perfect fit. Lattimore is another guy I really hope they land. Terrific work ethic, smart, great ball skills and very humble. I do think they need to draft another back and he would be my choice.

It seems that in this draft the picks from 6-32 are pretty damn close. I can't see getting a bad pick at 12, at least on paper.

As you know im really with you on Swope, he has everthing he needs to be a high end slot reciever, plus he has the trust of Tannehill.... the concussions are worrying but for me hes a good second round player.... I will be upset if he is not a Dolphin this time next month.

Im also with u on Mathieu, really nice nickle CB, I think he could learn a lot from Grimes. What do you think about about his personality, is he a bad kid or was it just a drug issue he may well be over now?

I think you have Slay a round too slow, id be happy with him in round two.

Great shout on Woods, I see him as a slightly lesser Greg Jennings in a few years.

I quite like the idea of brining in Barrett Jones as a long term replacement for incognito, smart player and a leader. Would you be ok with him as a starting guard?

I would be interested to know, in terms of the passing game how big is the difference between Eifert and Ertz?

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i have no idea about mathieus personality...he seems remorseful...but who knows...i don't have access to his interviews etc...what i do know is the guys a playmaker and the ball finds him...if the balls on the ground he's got it he forces turnovers and his ball skills and feel for the passing game and making plays when the balls in the air are elite...this kids got a lean lower half and shoulders but i think that's more about not being in the weight room much while he was suspended i think he'll get stronger and thicken out some...all i know is i wouldn't bet against him making a bunch of plays in the pros and playmakers in our secondary at corner especially are lacking...

barrett jones lack of strength really shows over his face lined up at center i think guard might be the best fit but there isn't much upside here...so over the long term are you gonna like him as a starting guard for you???? ehhh...i don't know...i like him most as a active on game day swing backup...solid depth

as for slay probably does go round 2 tape says to me no earlier than round 3...sweet feet sweet everything at the combine but i don't quite see that on tape...wouldn't surprise me if he went top 50 off his combine stuff...

as for eifert because i believe you can line him up in line off tackle and provide kick out blocks in the running game and motion him across the formation to the backside and take on guys as your #1 te and also flex him out and run him to the boundary without giving away your intentions in the huddle his value is more than ertz...you're more likely to see the defense keep base personnel on the field with eifert than ertz and there is where i think you can take advantage of his mismatch potential more on early downs and in the red zone etc...

ertz strikes me as the te you want next to a solid in line guy a 2nd te type that lines up sometimes in the backfield like an h back or off set formation type stuff and also flexed out...he's not a guy you want to depend on as a blocker...he's polshed though and been coached quite well...in some regards i have a hard time seeing a fit for him in our o with dustin keller already here...but then i think about the fact that ertz is so tall 6 ft 5 plus and i feel like i can find ways to get him on the field and take advantage of his skill set especially in a spread out offense...

Ive seen Hayden mocked in rounds 4-5 recently. Has he not checked out medically yet? If not, when will we know?

I seem to think this every year, but this draft really is going to be exciting. We can go so many different ways, and based in the talent level from say pick 10 up until late second even top of round 3 is gonna make it an interesting ride.

Hopefully we can nail some of our top picks for once.

I'd love a trade down (unless a top 10 talent drops) to pick up an extra 2nd or 3rd.

not really sure what you are talking about...mingo is 241 lbs played a hand in the dirt de at lsu all through his college career...if there's an adjustment it's making the switch to 34 olb...that's where the projection lies...he's never done that...

to me if you're gonna draft someone with a top 20 pick you should be playing to his strengths and what you graded him so high in the first place with...not asking him to be something else...i think that's where you can get yourself in trouble...so much projection with a position switch...

guys that are no brainer stand up olbs in a 34 are dion jordan...who has played so much standing up and dropping etc there is no projection there...it's plug and play...

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Because I have been accused of not adding enough to my takes, here is my take on Mingo.

He is light in the pants for a DE. The Fins are looking for 4-3 DE's and Mingo...with his frame does not fit what they do. He better match up vs. TE's because NFL tackles will swallow him up. If Mingo does not win with his initial burst he shows, at best he has limited counter moves.

Mingo has this supposed talent yet disappears in way too many games at LSU. If it is not his talent than it is his passion for the game. Maybe you can blame the Les Miles' culture for allowing that to happen, but at the very least it shows he is not a self-starter.

Finally, I do not like his overall fit anyways the NFL. He will have to be a 3-4 LB. He has never played it before so he is kind of a misfit. Too small for DE in a 4-3 and untested at OLB in the 3-4. How much better is this player really going to get?

Thanks for all the hard work. I am so torn about who to pick with our first pick. I love the idea of Austin's playmaking ability because we need that desperately. Same can be said for Eifert. Cooper would make our OL so much better. Carredine would be a fantastic DE for us. He has playmaking skills and size. Why can't we have 4 first rounders this year :thanks:

Ive seen Hayden mocked in rounds 4-5 recently. Has he not checked out medically yet? If not, when will we know?

I seem to think this every year, but this draft really is going to be exciting. We can go so many different ways, and based in the talent level from say pick 10 up until late second even top of round 3 is gonna make it an interesting ride.

Hopefully we can nail some of our top picks for once.

I'd love a trade down (unless a top 10 talent drops) to pick up an extra 2nd or 3rd.

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with hayden i think people are just like myself late to the party...everything i've heard is that it's not an issue going forward medical wise...but you'll probably have a better answer on draft weekend with how long he last on the board...if he gets into day 3 i think it's more than fair to say the medical has people spooked...there's no way that kid should be out there at the start of the 4th round...

So other thoughts on your write up. While we disagree big time on Mingo, we have a lot in common overall.

* Johnson- If we want Lane Johnson, we got to move up. Dead on there.
* Cooper IS the best guard in the draft.
* Allen- does even play football anymore. Will be available in round two. I have never seen a "simple" knee injury take so long to heal.
* Eifert- seems like the consensus is he the first TE to come off the board, but your write up shows that there are other TE's of value later in the draft. Not good value at 12.
* Hayden- glad you joined the party! I like where you put him. He is that good. No way he is day three like some experts have him.
* Trufant- Agree with everything you said.
* Ertz- Excellent write up. Love this kid. Reminds me of Jason Witten
* Your write up shows how strong the 2nd round is this year. That means two things to me...one, Miami can get two valuable players OR a team ahead of the the Fins might be willing to bail for a little less to recoup a 2nd rounder...paging Oakland Raiders.

* If the Fins stay at 12. I think the "suspects" for that pick could be...in no order at this time...Eifert, Richardson, Trufant, Hayden or Vaccaro. I think we as fans are sleeping on the Vaccaro possibility.

Because I have been accused of not adding enough to my takes, here is my take on Mingo.

He is light in the pants for a DE. The Fins are looking for 4-3 DE's and Mingo...with his frame does not fit what they do. He better match up vs. TE's because NFL tackles will swallow him up. If Mingo does not win with his initial burst he shows, at best he has limited counter moves.

Mingo has this supposed talent yet disappears in way too many games at LSU. If it is not his talent than it is his passion for the game. Maybe you can blame the Les Miles' culture for allowing that to happen, but at the very least it shows he is not a self-starter.

Finally, I do not like his overall fit anyways the NFL. He will have to be a 3-4 LB. He has never played it before so he is kind of a misfit. Too small for DE in a 4-3 and untested at OLB in the 3-4. How much better is this player really going to get?

At the end of the day, he is not a fit for Miami.

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well to be fair that's cause you don't usually provide any take...just one liners...but i appreciate the effort to explain your posiion here...i disagree with some of it...

obviously if i thought all mingo could do was beat te's i wouldn't have him this high...he's got the physical edge rush tools to give tackles fits...from a get off and burst which his lower half testing at the combine more than suggested from his 11 ft plus jump to his vertical etc...will he get washed out a lot if a tackle can get his hands on him and lock out??? yeah i'm sure he will...but will tackles always be worried about his ability to beat them on the edge and overcommit to make sure they get into that initial kick step as quickly as they can and open the door for him to redirect back inside and burst through to the qb with that rediculous acceleration and closing speed??? yep...

and this guys not as small as you are leading on by the way...6 ft 4 1/4 241 lbs...the ability to add another 5-8 lbs still of good weight and not lose anything...although he does have a thin torso...

So other thoughts on your write up. While we disagree big time on Mingo, we have a lot in common overall.

* Johnson- If we want Lane Johnson, we got to move up. Dead on there.
* Cooper IS the best guard in the draft.
* Allen- does even play football anymore. Will be available in round two. I have never seen a "simple" knee injury take so long to heal.
* Eifert- seems like the consensus is he the first TE to come off the board, but your write up shows that there are other TE's of value later in the draft. Not good value at 12.
* Hayden- glad you joined the party! I like where you put him. He is that good. No way he is day three like some experts have him.
* Trufant- Agree with everything you said.
* Ertz- Excellent write up. Love this kid. Reminds me of Jason Witten
* Your write up shows how strong the 2nd round is this year. That means two things to me...one, Miami can get two valuable players OR a team ahead of the the Fins might be willing to bail for a little less to recoup a 2nd rounder...paging Oakland Raiders.

* If the Fins stay at 12. I think the "suspects" for that pick could be...in no order at this time...Eifert, Richardson, Trufant, Hayden or Vaccaro. I think we as fans are sleeping on the Vaccaro possibility.

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i like vaccaro...best cover safety in the draft...can man the slot...but 4.65 40 does not suggest top 12 worthy pick...had that been in the low 4.5's then i think it would be more likely...